There are many things I love about Idaho and near the top of the list are our state's breathtaking lakes. Dozens of these bodies of water are tucked away, requiring proper gear, physical exertion, and a day full of adventure to visit. Iron Bog Lake, in the Salmon-Challis National Forest, is one of these lakes. This natural wonder is a true hidden gem as you must tackle a nearly 4-mile hike to enjoy the beauty of the area. But this hike isn’t going to be easy. This trail will test you physically and mentally.

Iron Bog Lake is where you’ll feel inspired. It is where you’ll feel disconnected from the world and can enjoy some quiet moments in nature. It is also the perfect reward after a challenging hike.

The trailhead to Iron Bog Lake is at the end of Forest Road 220 near Mackay. You’ll find a small parking area past the Iron Bog Campground. We recommend a high-clearance vehicle as the road to the trailhead can be rough.

The Iron Bog Lake Trail is an out-and-back hike that is approximately 3.7 miles. While the trail isn’t very long, it’s definitely challenging. In such a short amount of time, you will climb nearly 1,200 feet in elevation. You'll find some of the steepest and longest climbs at the beginning of your hike but throughout your journey, there are areas that will give your calves quite a workout.

But the effort you put into this adventure is going to be worth it. The journey is gorgeous as you’ll walk along meadows and can view mountains looming in the distance. You'll trek along ridges where wildflowers and awe-inspiring views surround you.

Preparation is key to a successful journey to Iron Bog Lake. There is little shade on this hike so we recommend bringing plenty of water and sun protection. And, of course, you’ll also want a hiking buddy. You are walking in the wilderness and you never know what wildlife may come up and say hello. Be smart as you make your climb.

As you continue on this trail, pay attention to the sounds of nature. Due to the difficulty of the hike and its remote location, this isn’t a busy path. In fact, you may not see another person on your way. This is a great destination to reflect on and enjoy the sights and sounds enveloping you.

And while I love the scenery you’ll encounter on the Iron Bog Lake Trail, nothing quite prepares you for the views at the end of the journey. Iron Bog Lake is surrounded by mountains and trees, creating a gorgeous masterpiece. You'll feel like you've stepped into a painting as you explore.

And make sure to pay attention to the color and clarity of the lake. It’s beautiful. This lake is also a great place to throw in a line and try your luck fishing. Just make sure you have a current Idaho fishing license with you.

If you love to backpack or want to start, the Iron Bog Lake Trail is an excellent option. There are plenty of areas around the lake where you can set up camp for the night and relax. I also recommend that you watch the weather forecast closely before tackling this trail. Due to the elevation, you may run into storms and it isn’t uncommon to even encounter snow and ice on the trail in the early summer.

But for a hidden gem and natural wonder in Idaho that is sure to inspire and amaze, there is nothing quite like Iron Bog Lake. It’s beautiful, serene, and the perfect adventure.

For more information on the Iron Bog Lake Trail, including access to recent hiker reviews, visit AllTrails. And make sure you check out AllTrails+ for more incredible hikes in the Sawtooth Mountains.